Abu Dhabi Grand Slam - Jiu-Jitsu displayed at highest level in Japan

The Abu Dhabi Grand Slam returned to Tokyo for the second leg of the Jiu-Jitsu World Tour Series, as Mackenzie Dern made easy work of Meagan Green by a knee-bar submission within 2 minutes at the Gi 70kg female black belt division finals and Alexandre Ribeiro lost a highly competitive and close fight to Felipe Pena at the Gi 94kg male black belt division at the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam Jiu-Jitsu World Tour.

The UAE Jiu-Jitsu National Team players had a great set of performances, winning a combined total of 9 medals.

The event began with national anthem of United Arab Emirates and Japan in the presence of the United Arab Emirates ambassador to Japan, His Excellency Khaled Omran Al Ameri, UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation board member, Mr. Yousef Al Batran, President and Vice President of Japan Jiu-Jitsu Federation, Mr. Takamasa Watanabe and Ono Tetsuji, respectively.

“I would like to say that, this was a very satisfying event hosted here in Tokyo. We have strong ties and relations with Japan not just as a country, but also in Jiu-Jitsu and sports in general. Congratulations to everyone who worked very hard on this event and congratulations to all the players who took part today. ” Said H.E Khaled Omran Al Ameri, United Arab Emirates ambassador to Japan

The Big Turtle Fukaya was at full capacity with 1,426 energetic fans in attendance and the viewers across Abu Dhabi Sports TV and the 12 broadcasters from around the world, witnessed some thrilling and tactical master class fights.

Faisal Al Ketbi and Gabriel De Sousa was one of the most thrilling fights of the day. The fight was technical and tactical from both players, as Al Ketbi began with his natural aggressive style, took the fight to De Sousa from the first whistle. In a competitive grappling contest, Faisal fell behind on points during the last 45 seconds of the fight, which cost him the Gold medal.

“After the success at the Asian games, we wanted to come here in Tokyo and do the same, and even much better. We achieved that as a team. Congratulations to my opponent, he was very tough and he deserves respect. The support that we get from the fans back home and the jiu-jitsu community around the world is incredible. Thank you and also congrats to my team mates,” said Faisal Al Ketbi.

“I had a tough fight in the semi finals against Erikson, he is a good fighter. I started a bit slow, and towards the end, I recovered and dominated the fight but it was too late, as I was behind in the points. But I am very happy to have won the Bronze medal against Sebastian. I got in form for that fight and I am happy with that. I hope to bring back the Gold in Rio.” Yahya Al Hammadi

The Abu Dhabi Grand Slam Jiu-Jitsu World Tour returns in less than a month with the third leg in beautiful Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on November 12th and 13th. Once again, prizes add up to more than $100,000 to be shared by the champions of each weight class. All Grand Slam events are open to athletes of all nationalities.